JOE ALLEN has hailed the contribution of Liverpool FC’s top sports psychiatrist in helping him make such an impressive start to his Anfield career.

The Reds’ £15million summer signing, who has been ever present in the Premier League this season, has embraced boss Brendan Rodgers’ decision to secure the services of Dr Steve Peters.

For the past two months world-renowned Peters, who has worked with the successful British Cycling team for the past decade, has been spending one day a week at Melwood to help players and coaching staff with the mental side of the game.

The sessions are optional but Allen is among those who have signed up and the Welshman believes he has already reaped the benefits.

“I’ve been to see him and I’ve found it very helpful,” said Allen.

“In football anything you can add or bring which can benefit us in any sort of way is something that I am happy to have.

“Steve really is an incredible person. The things he has done in his career are very impressive.

“Spending time with someone like him can only rub off on you in a good way.”

Peters has been credited by cyclists Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton as the man behind their Olympic triumphs.

His impressive list of clients also includes Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins, former Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy and snooker player Ronnie O’Sullivan.

He is juggling his commitments at Melwood with a new role working for UK Athletics.

“I’m not sure if the mental side of the game is more important these days but it’s certainly something that plays a part in how you play,” added Allen.

“I think it’s pretty obvious to see when you have someone on the pitch who is in a good frame of mind. When a player is brimming with confidence you certainly see a difference in his performance.

“You only have to look at some of the people Steve has worked with. It’s something we will utilise and I’m sure he will help us all over the course of the season.”

Jose Enrique (hamstring) is the only injury doubt for Rodgers’ side tomorrow.